This is Modern Feminism: Has Ekin-Su showed that Reality TV is a Feminist Platform?

Reality Television is often synonymous with the term polarising, usually dismissed as frivolous entertainment that reinforces stereotypes and sets back the footprints of feminism. However, in more recent years, some stars of the genre have used their appearances to challenge this longstanding narrative.

One of the biggest personalities carving out a new tale in TV is Love Island's Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu, who instantly took the nation by storm with her unapologetic confidence and untapped flame. After taking the path to victory in 2022, she returns to the show in 2025's All Stars. Her time on the show comes down to one question; can reality TV serve as a feminist platform?

From the moment she entered as a bombshell to the current episodes airing, Ekin-Su has been writing a love letter to the improvement of reality TV. The bombshell role in the show inherently comes with its own turned up face, with the goal of splitting up couples all in the name of male attention. While this is not an inherently dirty act, the role in the villa has built up a reputation.

What made Ekin-Su stand out to viewers of the show was her portrayal of brazen behaviour that is praised amongst the shows men and criticised amongst its women. She shouted, crawled on the floor, and she changed her mind about who she was interested in all to decide (like the men) if the grass was greener on the other side.

Her personality is easy to summarise; boystrous, confident, and she knows exactly what she doesn't want with no exceptions. Upon entering the show, she came in with the motto "I'm not looking for seasonal girlfriends", though not to say she wasn't a girl's girl; as she encouraged the rest of the islanders to pursue their true desires for the remainder of the show.

The show's audience is most populated by teenage girls, and at such an influential age reality TV often has a significant impact on their self worth. However, Ekin-Su has continued to be herself across both appearances on the show, getting herself branded as a weirdo by men in the villa. She also stands as a reminder of sexual liberation, passionately expressing herself towards current partner Curtis Pritchard during the Heart Rate Challenge in All Star's.

Ultimately, Ekin-Su is the answer towards the feminist future of reality TV. Her unapologetic nature serves as an inspiration to the shows teenage audience. While not the perfect contestant, she's messy, relatable and the reminder that women needed to see.